Implant Surface Temperature Changes during Er:YAG Laser Irradiation with Different Cooling Systems

Objective: Peri-implantitis is one of the most common reasons for implant fail- ure. Decontamination of infected implant surfaces can be achieved effectively by laser irradiation; although the associated thermal rise may cause irreversible bone damage and lead to implant loss. Temperature increments of over 10ºC during la- ser application may suffice for irreversible bone damage. Purpose of Study: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the temperature in- crement of implant surface during Er:YAG laser irradiation with different cooling systems. Materials and Methods: Three implants were placed in a resected block of sheep mandible and irradiated with Er:YAG laser with 3 different cooling systems namely water and air spray, air spray alone and no water or air spray. Temperature changes of the implant surface were monitored during laser irradiation with a K- type thermocouple at the apical area of the fixture. Results: Temperature changes were significantly different with different cooling systems used (P<0.001). Conclusion: Based on the results, no thermal damage was observed during implant surface decontamination by Er:YAG laser with and without refrigeration. Thus, Er:YAG laser irradiation can be a safe method for treatment of peri- implantitis.